How to Save Money Before Moving Abroad
9/13/2025
Moving abroad is exciting, but it can also be expensive. Three years ago, when I moved to Spain, I realized quickly that preparation isn’t just about packing your bags, it’s about preparing your finances too. Saving money before your move will give you freedom, peace of mind, and the flexibility to enjoy your first months abroad without stress.
In this post, I’ll share practical strategies that worked for me, along with a few personal lessons from my own journey.
1. Set a Realistic Budget
Before you do anything, figure out how much money you’ll need:
Initial costs: flights, visa, deposit for accommodation.
Monthly expenses: rent, groceries, transport, utilities.
Emergency fund: always keep 2–3 months of expenses aside.
💭 When I moved, I underestimated rent and deposits, having a clear budget would have made those first weeks less stressful.
2. Track Your Current Spending
Knowing where your money goes helps you cut unnecessary expenses. Use apps like Mint, YNAB, or a simple spreadsheet to track:
Coffee & takeout
Subscriptions you rarely use
Impulse shopping
💭 I was shocked how much I spent on coffee alone! Cutting back on small, recurring expenses added up fast.
3. Cut Unnecessary Expenses
Once you know your spending habits, look for easy ways to save:
Cancel unused subscriptions (gyms, streaming services, apps).
Cook more at home instead of eating out.
Buy second-hand for items you need short-term.
Limit big purchases unless essential.
✨ Every euro saved was one I could use on a cozy café in Spain when I arrived, a small reward for the effort.
4. Sell What You Don’t Need
Moving abroad is the perfect excuse to declutter. Sell or donate:
Old clothes
Electronics you don’t use
Furniture you can replace abroad
💭 I sold three big boxes of stuff before moving, not only did it save money on shipping, but it also felt liberating.
5. Find Additional Income Sources
Even small side hustles can make a huge difference. Consider:
Freelance work or tutoring online
Selling handmade items or crafts
Odd jobs or short-term gigs
💭 I picked up a few freelance projects before moving. The extra cash covered my first month’s rent stress-free.
6. Research Cost of Living in Your Destination
Knowing how much things actually cost abroad helps you plan better:
Groceries, rent, and utilities
Public transport vs. owning a car
Eating out and leisure activities
💭 Spain was cheaper than I feared for food and transport, but rent varied a lot by city. Research saved me from overspending.
7. Open a Dedicated “Moving Abroad” Account
Keep your savings separate from daily spending.
Set automatic transfers each month.
Track your progress visually — seeing the number grow is motivating.
8. Prioritize Experiences, Not Stuff
It’s tempting to buy things before you leave, but try to spend on experiences instead of clutter:
Language courses
Travel to nearby cities before settling
Cultural activities
💭 I wish I hadn’t bought extra kitchen gadgets. Instead, I could have used that money for a short weekend trip when I arrived.
9. Plan for Unexpected Expenses
Always budget a little extra for:
Health insurance or medical visits
Lost luggage
First-week necessities (towels, bedding, groceries)
💭 An unexpected deposit for my Spanish apartment cost more than I expected, having a cushion made it stress-free.
Final Thoughts
Saving money before moving abroad isn’t about extreme sacrifice, it’s about smart choices and small adjustments that add up. The peace of mind you gain will let you enjoy your new adventure without worrying about every euro.
👉 Want to turn your dream of living abroad into action?
Grab the free 5-step guide here!
Hi, I’m Romy
Three years ago, I moved to Spain with no plan but a strong feeling. I chose to follow my gut rather than look back with regret. I believe the best lessons come when you step out of your comfort zone. Now, I share my experiences, practical tips, and the tools I wish I had, hoping to inspire others to take the leap and start their own adventure.